Environment
I will protect our environment by supporting practical programs that directly solve problems.
Many people in California know about reduce, reuse, recycle.
What we don't realize is that businesses still find it difficult to enact strong recycling programs. They have special kinds of business waste that can be recycled in addition to paper, cans and bottles. As your Assemblymember I will work on incentives for businesses to divert their waste from landfills.
Did you know that most of California's stormdrains discharge straight to the Bay, creeks or ocean?
This means vehicle fluids, exhaust particulate, brake pad dust, agricultural pesticides and manure too often head straight to our waterways. I will advocate for renewed attention to reduce these "runoff" impacts.
California is a leader in responding to global warming.
The legislature now must make sure state staff completes scoping so businesses and residents can take advantage of alternative energy sources, such as wind and solar power. Developers need incentives to enact green building standards. And, we need investors to fund "green" business research and "green" jobs.
State agencies are underfunded so their industrial inspections too often are complaint-based.
I will challenge the California Department of Toxic Substances Control to enact fair, frequent inspections of all target businesses so employers compete on an even playing field.